Uganda’s Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, has directed bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments across the country not to open before 3:00 p.m. on working days. In a directive dated August 11, 2026, Mr Barugahara instructed local government leaders to work with security agencies and enforcement teams to ensure compliance with the new operating-hour restrictions. “Bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments should not open before 3:00 p.m. on working days, subject to applicable national laws, licensing requirements and lawful local government regulations,” the Minister stated. The Ministry has directed joint security teams, council enforcement officers and other relevant authorities to support local governments in implementing and enforcing the directives. Mr Barugahara became Uganda’s Minister of Local Government in the 2026–2031 Cabinet after previously serving as State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs.